The flu vaccine has met with not-insignificant controversy as those like myself who advocate more natural preventive health measures have long questioned the necessity of an annual jab. But until now, even “alternative” health experts have conceded that the flu vaccine is necessary for the immune-compromised and especially the elderly (among other vulnerable populations). Turns out, even this accepted wisdom is little more than another case of the ever self-serving Big Pharma.

The Lancet has the details and I encourage you to read up (start here) if this is a matter that interests you. As for the merit of the flu shot, I’ve never been sold on it. I think intelligent supplementation, exercise, rest, prudent nutrition and extra hand-washing during the worst times of the year is a more sensible and safe approach. But that’s just me.

Antioxidants serve as a powerful first line of defense against oxidative damage from aging, stress, and inflammation. Moreover, antioxidants appear to contain cancer-fighting properties and to support the immune system (among many other benefits). The ones included in this graphic are considered some of the most important. Though many, many foods contain these valuable antioxidants, we’ve listed a few of the most potent and popular choices for each class of antioxidants.

A major study (17 years, 10,000 participants) finds that a busy lifestyle in which sleep is sacrificed is directly linked to increased disease risk across the board but especially heart disease, even when accounting for other risk factors such as smoking and obesity. Perhaps most astounding – to me, anyway – is that fully 40% of Americans get less than five hours of sleep, on average, per night. Between work and the kids, my wife and I don’t always get the luxury of 7 or 8 hours, and I know it’s the same for many of you.

If you’re new to Mark’s Daily Apple, be sure to check out some of our most controversial, popular, and hotly-debated posts of the year. It’s a great chance to share your views on some tough topics and get to know other readers, too. From veganism to raw food to Atkins to health care to cardio, the biggest discussions in health are here!

Be sure to bookmark this post for those days when you need a bit of mental sparring!

The Primal Blueprint Podcast

Interviews with Mark Sisson and other health experts. Audio versions of select Mark’s Daily Apple posts each week. “Best of MDA” recordings. Fresh, lively content to help you stay at the cutting edge of Primal living!